The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reminded demonstrators to observe the limits of their right to freedom of expression during the 2026 ASEAN Summit, stressing that protests must not infringe on the rights of others.
In the report of RH Edniel Parrosa, PNP spokesperson PBGen. Allen Rae Co said authorities will prioritize the security of visiting heads of state, including United States President Donald Trump, following a warning from the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) that it would follow the US leader throughout his visit.
“We vow to hound Trump from his hotel to Malacañang and everywhere else he goes to remind him that he is not welcome here and should be kicked out,” BAYAN said.
Co emphasized that the police would not initiate any confrontation with protesters but urged demonstrators to give their members clear instructions on proper conduct.
“It will never be the police who will initiate confrontation,” Co said.
He added that authorities have a responsibility to protect foreign leaders as representatives of sovereign nations while ensuring public safety throughout the summit.
